Luxembourg introduced a new legal framework for the EU Blue Card, the granting of which now requires presentation of a 6-month work contract rather than one of 12 months (as was previously the case).

The aim of the legislative change is to attract more highly qualified third-country nationals (TCNs) wishing to work both in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and in a Member State of the European Union, thereby strengthening the attraction and retention of talent in Luxembourg.

In terms of scope, beneficiaries of international protection now have the right to apply for an EU Blue Card in Luxembourg provided they meet all the relevant conditions. In addition to presentation of a valid work contract of at least 6 months, applicants must also be receiving a salary equivalent to the average gross annual salary in Luxembourg, which is currently 58 968 EUR. The system applies a single salary threshold across all sectors, in order to simplify administration.

The new framework also reduces time that Blue Card holders must spent in the country before they have free access to the labour market - this will now be possible after 1 year rather than after 2 years - and introduces the possibility of short- and long-term stays in other Member States.

A step-by-step guide to the Blue Card procedure can be found here, and the new legal framework document is attached below.